Fostering Conversations

Congratulations to the 2020 Penn Foster Graduate of the Year, Keyana Beamon! A graduate of the Veterinary Technician program, Keyana puts her degree to work at Banfield Pet Hospital where she received a raise after completing her studies. A mother, Penn Foster offered Keyana the flexible education she needed. "[Penn Foster] made a huge impact [on my life]... I feel like I'm able to tackle the world," said Keyana. She is planning to continue her education. Listen to her story.

A Banfield employee, Simone Conwell was encouraged to enroll in Penn Foster's Veterinary Technician Associate Degree program. She graduated in 2017, and seven weeks after having brain surgery she passed the VTNE the first time. "I learned so much and felt supported," said Simone. Now a veterinary technician at Banfield and a criticalist at BluePearl working to build a new critical care unit, Simone believes Penn Foster gave her the confidence she needs to succeed and mentor fellow coworkers. Listen to her story.

Born in Siberia, Russia, Galina grew up in a family of circus performers. A juggler and animal trainer, she worked with sea lions, camels, horses, dogs, and geese. Traveling all over Russia and Europe, Galina and her family eventually began to perform in the United States. Always on the move, Galina didn't think higher education was possible. That's until she found Penn Foster. "Penn Foster's online program was ideal. They offered a degree in the field I naturally wanted to transition to, veterinary medicine. Animals were a big part of my life and science has always been a fascination of mine, Penn Foster helped me combined these two passions and make it into a new career," Galina said. Listen to her story.

A navy spouse, Melanie Davis often moves from state to state. She found herself constantly starting at the bottom and having to work her way up to management. Melanie knew she needed a formal education to show hiring managers she has the education and experience needed to lead. "I consider my experience with Penn Foster to be invaluable. It has opened up my eyes to so many possibilities I had never considered for myself. I now know that I can achieve what I put my mind to, even if times get hard and the road gets tough," said Melanie. Listen to her story.

As a mom, Angelina Lowder wanted to set an example for her children. But, with work and family obligations she didn't think she would be able to achieve her dream of earning a bachelor's degree. Thanks to Penn Foster's learning model, she was able to graduate and advance her career. "Being able to take classes online provided me a unique opportunity to go at my own pace. It enabled me to have confidence and provided a great sense of personal accomplishment. Penn Foster was a perfect fit," said Angelina. Listen to her story.

Brenda Castellano owns and operates Keystone Stars 4 Group Childcare located in Reading, Pennsylvania, and has been in the Early Childhood and Education field for over 30 years. Her business earned recognition in 2017 by winning the Reading Eagle’s Readers Choice Award for Best Daycare/Preschool. "I contribute my success to my husband for pushing me to continue my education and Penn Foster because without my Early Childhood Education Associate Degree I would not be as successful as I am today," she said. "Penn Foster has the flexibility I need as a business owner and mother." Brenda is currently enrolled in the Business Management Bachelor's Degree program.

Twin sisters Kaitlyn and Kourtney Fedor graduated together and celebrated their achievements at Penn Foster's graduation ceremony on June 1, 2019. Both graduated from the Dental Assistant Program. "We both were looking for a dental assistant program for a long time that would work well with our busy schedules. We came across Penn Foster and were instantly surprised by not only the affordability but by the way staff was always there if you had a question(which is amazing for an online program)... We recommend PF to anyone who wants to start something but thinks they can't because with PF anything is possible," said Kaitlyn and Kourtney. Listen to their stories.

Before enrolling in Penn Foster Brent Nelson was working 40 or more hours a week to make ends meet. He heard about Penn Foster but didn't consider pursuing his high school diploma online until a Penn Foster commercial came across his television. "I did some research and I made the call and after the call, it was a match made in heaven," said Brent. Now, Brent started his own company and plans on attending college. Listen to his story.

Rocco Pasquarello is a recent graduate of the Freelance Writing program. He's also a Student Ambassador. "Being a Student Ambassador is a blessing in that I get the chance to learn from Penn Foster students along with helping to share wisdom and knowledge with those in the community who needs guidance," said Rocco. Now, Rocco is enrolled in the Desktop Design program. Listen to his story about life as a career student and how he stays motivated.

Coty was working as a veterinary assistant and manager for a small animal practice, but wanted more responsibility. She also wanted to broaden her knowledge about veterinary medicine and be able to legally perform procedures on the animals. Now, she applies the skills she learned to her every day work. "I'm constantly placing catheters, intubating, running anesthesia, and clipping in cleaning wounds. I learned all these at Penn Foster," Coty said. Now, Coty is a licensed veterinary technician. Listen to her story.